How to Beat ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) & Get More Interviews

Did you know that 75% of resumes are rejected by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before a human even sees them? If you’re applying for jobs online but not getting interviews, your resume might be getting filtered out by these automated systems.

In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ What an ATS is and how it works
✅ How to format your resume for ATS compatibility
✅ Best keyword optimization strategies
✅ Tools to check if your resume is ATS-friendly

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to tweak your resume to beat the bots and land more interviews.

What Is an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to filter, rank, and manage job applications. Companies (especially large ones) rely on ATS to handle hundreds or thousands of resumes efficiently.

How Does an ATS Work?

1. Scans & Parses Resumes – Extracts text to analyze keywords, skills, and experience.
2. Ranks Candidates – Matches resumes against job descriptions using algorithms.
3. Filters Out Low-Scoring Resumes – If your resume doesn’t meet the criteria, it gets rejected before a recruiter sees it.

🔗 Related: How Recruiters Use ATS (SHRM Report) 

How to Optimize Your Resume for ATS

1. Use the Right File Format

• Best: PDF (if the ATS allows it) or Word (.docx)
• Avoid: Images, tables, and complex graphics (they confuse ATS scanners).

2. Choose an ATS-Friendly Resume Template

• Stick to simple, clean layouts (no columns or fancy designs).
• Use standard headings like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”

🔗 Recommended: Free ATS-Friendly Resume Templates (Google Docs) 

3. Include the Right Keywords

ATS ranks resumes based on keyword matching. To find the best keywords:

• Analyze the job description – Highlight repeated words (skills, tools, certifications).
• Use industry-specific terms (e.g., “SEO Marketing” vs. “Digital Marketing”).
• Mix exact and related keywords (e.g., “Project Management” + “Agile Methodology”).

📌 Pro Tip: Use tools like Jobscan  to compare your resume against job descriptions.

4. Optimize Your Work Experience Section

• Use bullet points (not paragraphs).
• Start with action verbs (e.g., “Managed,” “Developed,” “Increased”).
• Include metrics (e.g., “Increased sales by 30%”).

5. Avoid Common ATS Mistakes

❌ Spelling errors (ATS may reject resumes with typos).
❌ Headers & footers (some ATS can’t read them).
❌ Uncommon fonts (stick to Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman).

Best Tools to Check if Your Resume is ATS-Friendly

Before submitting your resume, test it with these tools:

1. Jobscan – Compares your resume against job descriptions.
2. ResumeWorded – Provides ATS scoring and feedback.
3. TopResume’s Free Review – Identifies ATS weaknesses.

Final Checklist: Is Your Resume ATS-Ready?

Before hitting “Submit,” ask:
✔ Is my file format correct? (PDF or Word)
✔ Have I used the right keywords from the job description?
✔ Is my resume simple and scannable? (No tables/graphics)
✔ Have I proofread for errors?

Conclusion

If your resume isn’t ATS-optimized, you’re missing out on job opportunities. By following these steps—using the right format, keywords, and structure—you’ll beat the bots and get your resume in front of hiring managers.

FAQs About ATS Resume Optimization

Q: Can I use a creative resume design and still pass ATS?
A: No. Fancy templates with graphics often fail ATS scans. Stick to simple formats.

Q: How many keywords should I include?
A: Match 60-80% of job description keywords without overstuffing.

Q: Does ATS reject resumes with gaps?
A: Not necessarily, but explain gaps in a cover letter.

🔗 Read Next: How to Write a Resume Summary That Stands Out 

By optimizing your resume for ATS, you’ll dramatically increase your interview chances. Start applying these tips today! 🚀